– by Tom Dumarey

Following up on 2014’s ‘What Happened To You?’, New Jersey’s Aspiga finally have a new album out. Well, it’s actually more like three new songs along with some previously unreleased songs. But you’d never know it just from listening to the album, which sounds as cohesive as any other album.

Originally started as more of a solo project by vocalist/guitarist Kevin Day, Aspiga has since evolved into a trio that is rounded out by bassist Alec McVey and drummer Ray Solowij. Together they crank out excellent melodic punk rock with heart-on-sleeve style lyrics that tap from the same vein as Jawbreaker, Samiam and the likes.

Both ‘Beautiful Wounds’ and ‘August’ rush right in without being pushy. Once settled in, Aspiga take you on a trip that includes highlights such as ‘Searching’, the Larry Arms-like ‘Fading Into Summer’ and the beautiful ‘Momentary Flashes’. Always highly melodic and with a solid gritty edge, never too saccharine. It’s a fine line to walk, but Aspiga make it sound easy.

Track listing:

1. Beautiful Wounds
2. August
3. Searching
4. Eucalyptus Nights
5. Fading Into Summer
6. Good Thoughts
7. Direction
8. Momentary Flashes
9. I'll Make You Believe
10. Spirits
11. Don't Hurry Christmas